August 31st, 2006
CA bill aimed at stopping wireless piggybacking
California’s state Assembly has passed a law designed to put an end to piggybacking on others’ Wi-Fi networks, AFP reports. It would require wireless equipment manufacturers to preinstall security settings or warn consumers about unguarded wireless networks.
The bill was offered by Assembly Speaker Fabian Nunez, who had something of an eyeopening experience when spokesman Steve Maviglio was working at Nunez’s loft in LA and got online by piggybacking a nearby connection.
"He was amazed that you could just take advantage of someone else’s service without paying a dime and what someone with evil intentions could do," Maviglio said of the 39-year-old assemblyman’s reaction.
"We found that most people aren’t even aware," Maviglio said, referring to the vulnerability of wireless networks not protected by passwords or other means. "The bill is designed to inform consumers."
Schwarzenegger has 30 days to decide whether he will sign the bill into law.
